Kent doctor first to implant new heart device

WARWICK – Dr. Bruce A. Koplan, director of cardiac arrhythmia service at Kent Hospital and a member of Brigham and Women’s Cardiovascular Associates at Kent, was the first to implant a new subcutaneous heart device in patients at risk of cardiac arrest.

Working with a team of cardiologists at Brigham and Women’s Hospital in Boston, Koplan implanted three of the new devices in late November.

The heart device is the first of its kind and is being called a breakthrough treatment in preventing sudden cardiac deaths.

Federal regulators approved the subcutaneous heart defibrillator, otherwise known as S-ICD, just two months ago.

The defibrillator, which was built by Boston Scientific Corp., can be placed under the skin, rather than connecting directly to the heart. It is a less invasive treatment that can be used on patients who cannot tolerate standard cardiac defibrillators.

“I am honored to recognize Dr. Koplan on the implementation of this new heart device, which could have a significant impact on the many patients in our region who are at risk for cardiac arrest,” said Sandra Coletta, president and CEO of Kent Hospital and COO of Care New England. “The fact that he was the first physician to implement such a highly anticipated device, here in New England, speaks volumes of his high level of expertise and the care he is able to provide.”

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